Early Exit for Netherlands’ Sole Representative

PARIS – The 2025 World Badminton Championships in Paris has been short-lived for the Netherlands. Kirsten de Wit, the country’s sole representative, bowed out in the second round of the women’s doubles event alongside Ukrainian partner Mariia Stoliarenko.

“De Wit played together with the Ukrainian Mariia Stoliarenko, with whom she often forms a duo at international tournaments. There were simply no fellow countrymen to form a duo with the 21-year-old player from Bunschoten.”

De Wit and Stoliarenko had started their campaign on a high note, defeating Fadilah Mohamed Rafi and Tracy Naluwooza from Uganda 21-2, 21-14. However, their progress was halted by Japanese duo Rin Iwanaga and Kie Nakanishi, who proved too strong, winning 21-8, 21-10.

Financial Strains Affect Dutch Badminton

The Netherlands’ badminton scene faces significant challenges, with several top players retiring recently. Debora Jille and Robin Tabeling ended their careers after the European Championships in April, while Mark Caljouw, Cheryl Seinen, Selena Piek, and Alyssa Tirtosentono also hung up their rackets before or after the Paris Olympics.

These retirements can largely be attributed to the loss of financial resources. Since this summer, badminton is no longer part of the top sports program of NOC*NSF. Consequently, Dutch badminton players can no longer train at the renowned Papendal facility.